Emma Conran

“I chose Carthage because I was drawn to its small class sizes and personal connections students make with professors, which aligns perfectly with my passion for collaboration. I was particularly excited about the J-Term study tours, as they provide a unique chance to go somewhere new, experience different cultures, and learn material that a normal semester would not be able to cover. Beyond academics, I was impressed by Carthage’s tight-knit community where students support one another and the vibrant campus life that encourages involvement in meaningful activities.”

“The Carthage faculty have given me a space to grow as a student and person. With their assistance, I have accomplished some college career goals, such as getting a job at the Writing Center, conducting summer research through the SURE program, and being accepted into a research experience off campus. They are endlessly supportive, regardless of time or day of the week. Whether it’s challenging homework that I have a question about over the weekend or questions about graduate school — the professors on campus are always there to help and ensure that I am successful.”

“Picking a favorite is difficult because I have enjoyed so many of them. But I think that I would have to say Real Analysis with Professor Mark Snavely is my overall favorite. While the class was super tricky, it was also super rewarding. It felt amazing to solve complicated proofs and learn the math behind the formulas I have used my entire math career. Prof. Snavely is another reason I enjoyed the class; his videos for different topics never failed to make me smile.”

“The most challenging class at Carthage I have taken has to be Abstract Algebra. I had never really taken a proofs class, so Abstract was like diving into a pool head first. The class revolved around taking what we knew about math, boiling it down to the basic operations, and proving that they worked. It was hard not to let what we knew to be true interfere with what we were proving. I appreciated that Professor Sara Jensen held late-night office hours only for Abstract students so we could ask her any questions we had about homework or exams. She would always answer the question in a way that geared us toward the correct answer without giving us the answer.”

“I have gone on two J-Term study tours: one to Europe with the Carthage Orchestra and one to Paris. In 2023, I participated in the SURE program with Elena Knebel ’25 and Brett VanDeWostine ’24, using mathematics to study the political polarization of the United States Senate. Once we finished our work, we traveled to Tampa, Florida to present our findings at the MAA Conference. We further showcased our work at the Celebration of Scholars presentation.”

“I am leaning toward being a data analyst because I have always been fascinated by looking at data and determining what it might mean. After I graduate, I plan to attend graduate school and pursue a doctorate in applied mathematics. The mathematics I plan on pursuing is still changing daily, but I want to do something relating to social systems, the environment, or politics.”

“My favorite spot on campus is the Mathematics Lab because of the location and the people who are usually there. It’s ideally located for me because it’s by the math faculty offices and is a short walk to pester them with questions. Also, several of my friends are often there doing work, and the room provides an excellent space for all of us.”

“My favorite moments in general are the Christmas Festival concerts. While they are a lot of work to prepare for, they are beautiful and magical to perform. When the chapel is filled with people, twinkling lights, and all of the student musicians coming together to make music; it is an experience that is hard to describe. My favorite Christmas Festival moment has to be when the orchestra finished playing a piece, and even though the audience was not supposed to clap until the concert’s end, we got roaring applause.”

“Another favorite memory of mine is riding the carnival ride with my friends at Carthage’s Kickoff Carnival. It’s not just the ride that makes the memory enjoyable, but it is the laughter and smiles everyone has on their faces.”

“By studying early, you give yourself the most time to ask your professors questions and don’t have to stay up late cramming. Another tip is to try different studying methods because what worked in high school may not work now.”

“As cliche as it sounds, I really think the best way to make friends is to be yourself. The right people will find you if you are your true authentic self. I also think joining as many clubs and participating in as many activities as possible early on is another great way to make friends. I met several of my closest friends through various organizations and activities.”